Question:

Could an expert advise on resolving the error code 0xC1900101 – 0x30017, which occurs during the FIRST BOOT phase of the BOOT operation while updating to Windows 11 23H2 from Windows 11 21H2 using an ISO file from the Media Creation Tool? After initiating the update, my system encounters a BSOD with the stop code ‘Reference_by_pointer’. I am currently at a loss on how to rectify this issue. Assistance would be greatly appreciated. Here is the link to my setupact.log file for reference: [setupact.log](https://pastebin.com/raw/21DjQjPA).

Answer:

Encountering error code 0xC1900101 – 0x30017 during the FIRST BOOT phase of a Windows update can be a challenging issue. This error typically indicates a failure during the BOOT operation when attempting to update from Windows 11 21H2 to Windows 11 23H2 using an ISO file from the Media Creation Tool. Additionally, the Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) with the stop code ‘Reference_by_pointer’ suggests a deeper problem that needs to be addressed.

Understanding the Error Code

The error code 0xC1900101 – 0x30017 is often associated with driver conflicts or issues that occur during the boot phase of the system update. It’s crucial to ensure that your system meets the minimum requirements for the update and that there is sufficient disk space available—more than 30 GB is recommended.

Steps to Resolve the Issue

1. Update BIOS and Drivers: Ensure that your BIOS is updated to the latest non-beta version. Also, check that all system drivers are up to date, particularly the graphics and network drivers, as these can often cause conflicts.

2. Check for Sufficient Disk Space: Free up disk space so that you have at least 30 GB available for the update process.

3. Remove Peripheral Devices: Disconnect any unnecessary external devices that could be causing conflicts during the update process.

4. Perform a Clean Boot: Initiating a clean boot can help identify if background programs are interfering with the update process.

5. Address the BSOD Stop Code: The ‘Reference_by_pointer’ BSOD stop code indicates a possible issue with system files or device drivers. Running a memory check and checking for hardware issues can help resolve this. Updating your graphics driver, especially if you have an AMD graphics card, has been known to resolve this issue.

6. Use Windows Update Troubleshooter: Run the built-in Windows Update Troubleshooter to automatically detect and fix common problems.

7. Review the Setupact.log File: Analyze the setupact.log file for any specific error messages that can provide more insight into the failure.

Conclusion

Resolving the 0xC1900101 – 0x30017 error requires a systematic approach to identify and address the underlying issues. By following the steps outlined above, you can increase the chances of a successful update to Windows 11 23H2. If the problem persists, consider seeking further assistance from Microsoft Support or a professional technician who can analyze the setupact.log file in detail and provide a tailored solution. Remember, it’s essential to back up your data before attempting any significant system changes to prevent data loss.